2 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Owl Creek Horse Camp offers basic tent camping with limited facilities for equestrians visiting the Four Oaks region. Portable toilets are available on-site, but the campground lacks electric hookups, water hookups, and sewer connections. The primitive camping area provides drinking water access for horses and riders. The campground is accessible via drive-in or walk-in routes and accommodates tent camping in a natural setting. Security staff does not regularly patrol the grounds, and reservations cannot be made in advance.
Located approximately 35 miles south of Raleigh, the horse camp serves as a starting point for trail riding in the surrounding forest areas. Riders should bring their own feed and water containers as horse corrals are not provided on-site. The trails connect to larger regional trail systems, though seasonal closures may affect accessibility during wet weather conditions. Campers should practice proper manure management as designated disposal areas are not available. The lack of dedicated facilities means horse owners must be self-sufficient, bringing portable containment systems or highlines for securing their animals overnight. Most visitors stay 1-2 nights while exploring the trail network that extends through the natural terrain surrounding Four Oaks.
"This campground is adjacent to the NC State Fairgrounds. Sites are spacious and full hook ups. Gravel roadways and grass/gravel sites."
"Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."
from $45 / night
"This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "
"Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "
Available next weekend
from $27 - $77 / night
"We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."
"Lots of great paths to walk."
Available next weekend
from $27 - $75 / night
"There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too! Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways."
"None of the sites are located right on the lake. You either walk the trails or drive down."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $72 / night
from $5 / night
GuideThe sites are very large, long and wider at the back, plenty of room for a big group or family. The bathrooms look new and they are clean. Here during the week so it's very empty and quiet.
TravelerWe visited Crosswinds campground at Jordan Lake State Park on the worst heatwave of the year. The great thing about this area is that the sites a well shaded. We were about 50 yards from the lake, with the wind blowing we still were comfortable all day. We stayed on Loop A, which is my favorite loop at the park. There’s no electricity or water at the sites. There are water spickets throughout the loop with potable water. The site is awesome! There’s a small pond beside it. The neighboring sites are close, but regular conversations can not be heard.this loop is always quiet even when there are a lot of people, but it’s never been full when I’m there. I didn’t do good with photos except for the food.
ScoutDecent campground in a beautiful location along Lake Jordan. Crosswinds Campground is one of several sites on the lake. We chose this location since the gates stay open all the time, while other sites have a curfew that can lock you out for the night.
The staff are super friendly and helpful. There’s apparently a camp host whom we never met and they’re on the site next to ours (not sure if they’re supposed to greet us or help us get acquainted with the site, but the staff member at check in was great and did all that when we arrived).
Loop C is quiet, very few children, and less road noise compared to the other loops, but doesn’t have the same access to the lake.
Site C50 is conveniently located close to the bath house, has a large fire pit with adjustable grill, picnic table, and hookups for water and electricity. We’re in a tent, so really just use the electricity. The picnic table here should be replaced, as the wood seems to be rotting, but still does the job. There are a few sites in loop C that do have direct access to the lake, but those tend to be booked all of the time. We explored one last night and couldn’t believe it was vacant and how much nicer it seemed.
Bathrooms are not as clean as I would like, but I bring disinfectant wipes to wipe the toilet before use. Showers are fine, but use an annoying motion sensor to turn the water on/off. Showering at night is annoying with the bugs because the bathhouse is lit like a beacon (probably for safety). Waiting for the daytime is a better experience. Also, there isn’t a washing station for dishes, and we do that at our site.
Firewood can be purchased by the staff at the campground entrance; however, the exact same firewood is almost $4 fewer at a Refuel station down the street. Definitely stop into that gas station store for things you might need.
Overall, really good experience staying here, some annoying things, but won’t ruin your stay.
ScoutReally fantastic spot to camp! Great sites and hook ups (no sewer, but EASY dump station)! Go for Loop B - it has the beach.
LegendB.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees. It’s strictly hike-in and tent-only, so we had to pack light and plan carefully, but the trade-off was true peace and space to connect without the noise of RVs or busy roads. With shaded group sites, fire pits, picnic tables, nearby restrooms, and lake access perfect for paddling or fishing, it offered a rustic yet rewarding experience that was still close enough to Wake Forest for a quick meal or supply run when we needed it.
ScoutThe staff are all very friendly and helpful
GuideThis is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. They do not allow tents. All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything. Pets are welcome, but as everywhere, dogs must be on a leash (not more than 6' long). If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds.
ScoutNo amenities, but the price reflects that. Conveniently located to everything this area offers. Fun to check out whatever is happening at the fairgrounds and the horse complex is across the street. Big rig friendly but you might need to park your your truck/road a ver short walk away if you have a very large rig. The issue here is lack of oversight. There are security folks, but only if you call and request them. There is trash pickup, but no other staff anywhere. So people break the various rules often. Mainly they stay longer than 14 days. There were squatters when we were here one time - about 5 rigs and they wouldn’t leave and had no reservations. They were gone two weeks later when we came back (state troopers and Raleigh PD had to get involved).
TravelerThe sites are level, not much shade. Garbage cans everywhere. Convenient to get into and out of with full hookup. There are no amenities at all but security drives around. Felt safe. Across from stadium. Price is worth the value.
Equestrian camping near Four Oaks, North Carolina offers basic facilities in a natural setting approximately 35 miles south of Raleigh. Located within the coastal plain region at elevations averaging 200-250 feet, the area experiences mild winters and warm, humid summers. The sandy soil conditions affect trail quality seasonally, with spring and fall providing optimal riding conditions when temperatures average 60-75°F.
Trail riding exploration: Equestrians can access multiple connecting trail systems from Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, which offers more developed facilities than Owl Creek. One visitor noted, "Great Campsites, nice wooded sites and close to lake access. Great hiking trails and very family friendly. Deer walked right behind our site."
Horseback swimming areas: Several lake access points around the Four Oaks region permit horses in designated areas during spring and summer months. Water depth varies seasonally. At B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area, "The lake is great, roped off area for swimming with a great little sandy beach area next to a playground and toilets."
Evening campfire activities: Most equestrian campsites in the Four Oaks area permit fires in established rings. While Owl Creek has restrictions, nearby alternatives exist. Pack your own firewood or purchase bundles for around $5 at nearby stores. One camper mentioned, "We absolutely love this area! There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too!"
Natural surroundings: The wooded terrain provides shade and wildlife viewing opportunities during rides. At William B. Umstead State Park Campground, "There are multiple trails, for varying skill level" and "Umstead offers a fantastic network of trails and more!"
Trail system connectivity: Riders appreciate how multiple trails connect between riding areas. Most loops range from 3-8 miles in length with varied terrain. One equestrian noted, "This campground is right on a lake allowing for drive in campground with a body of water to swim, kayak, and enjoy only 100 yards away."
Accessibility from urban areas: The Four Oaks equestrian camping region provides trail access while remaining within 45 minutes of Raleigh. A camper shared, "Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways. There are tons of beach areas and places to enjoy the great outdoors."
Seasonal limitations: Wet weather significantly impacts trail conditions due to clay and sand composition. Check trail status before visiting. A camper at North Carolina State Fairgrounds noted proximity to equestrian facilities: "Equestrian facility is next door. Sites are first come first serve; no reservations."
Limited horse-specific amenities: Most campgrounds lack dedicated horse corrals or stables. Bring portable containment systems and plan for highline setups. "The camping sites are spacious and most are level. We did have to use blocks on one side."
Varied water access: While drinking water is available for humans at most facilities, horse-specific water access points vary by location. During summer droughts, some natural water sources may dry up. "Starting at $30/night for a camping lot. Bathroom facilities with hot showers located near every loop."
Playground proximity: Several campgrounds offer play areas near equestrian camping zones. At Falls Lake State Recreation Area, one family mentioned, "Loved that there was a playground near the site. The site itself was gravelly and not super private but it was great- the hikes around were stunning."
Kid-friendly trail options: Shorter loop trails suitable for beginning riders are available at most locations. "I camped here with a large group and we fit in one campground nicely. Some people slept in tents but a lot strung Eno hammocks between the Carolina Pines."
Pack extra clothing: The clay soil in the Four Oaks area can stain clothing during wet conditions. "B.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees."
Limited hookups for horse trailers: Most equestrian camping areas near Four Oaks offer minimal electrical connections for living quarter trailers. At NC State Fairgrounds Campground, "We needed to stop in Raleigh for the night and stayed here. It's quiet and huge and full hookups for $30/night."
Trailer parking logistics: Many sites require separate parking areas for trucks and trailers. "Big rig friendly but you might need to park your your truck/road a very short walk away if you have a very large rig."
Manure disposal planning: With no dedicated disposal areas, bring containers to transport manure off-site. "This is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. They do not allow tents. All sites are gravel, but are quite level."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Four Oaks, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Four Oaks, NC is North Carolina State Fairgrounds with a 4.1-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Four Oaks, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 equestrian camping locations near Four Oaks, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
